exertion

noun

ex·​er·​tion ig-ˈzər-shən How to pronounce exertion (audio)
Synonyms of exertionnext
: the act or an instance of exerting
especially : a laborious or perceptible effort

Examples of exertion in a Sentence

He was panting from the exertion of climbing the stairs. an easy sport that requires little physical exertion
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
More serious altitude sickness shows up as shortness of breath even with minimal exertion, along with swelling in the hands and face. Morayo Ogunbayo, AJC.com, 13 Feb. 2026 Some of Goldsworthy’s art has also required strenuous exertions. Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 9 Feb. 2026 For a midlayer, our editors love the Outdoor Research Vigor Grid Fleece Quarter-Zip Pullover ($110) that features thermoregulating ActiveTemp™ fabric treatment great for keeping you at the right temp through high-exertion activities. Emilee Coblentz, Outside, 7 Feb. 2026 The physical exertion and cold weather combined make snow shoveling a risky endeavor even for those who don’t have existing heart health issues. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for exertion

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1676, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exertion was circa 1676

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exertion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exertion. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

exertion

noun
ex·​er·​tion ig-ˈzər-shən How to pronounce exertion (audio)
: the act or an instance of exerting

More from Merriam-Webster on exertion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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